Junior Bridgeman, a 12-year NBA veteran and billionaire entrepreneur, has passed away at the age of 71. He experienced a medical emergency during the 45th Annual Leadership Luncheon on Scouting at The Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky, on Tuesday.
WLKY reporter Kent Taylor, who was interviewing with Bridgeman at the time, said that Bridgeman told him he believed that he was suffering a heart attack in front of hundreds of people present there. Emergency services were immediately called, and Bridgeman was rushed by ambulance but died later.
Basketball Legacy and NBA Career of Junior Bridgeman
Junior Bridgeman became a Louisville basketball legend before going on to a successful business career. He played college ball at the University of Louisville from 1972-75, leading the Cardinals to two Final Fours under coach Denny Crum.
The Los Angeles Lakers drafted Bridgeman as the eighth overall pick of the 1975 NBA Draft but traded him to the Milwaukee Bucks shortly thereafter. He played for the Bucks for 10 years before appearing for the Los Angeles Clippers from 1984-86. In 711 career games, he scored an average of 13.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists with a 47.8% shooting average from the field.
Junior Bridgeman held a 10% minority interest in the Bucks, who released a statement of their sorrow.
“The Milwaukee Bucks are saddened and shocked by the sudden death of Bucks legend and owner Junior Bridgeman,” the team stated. “Junior’s retired No. 2 jersey is displayed in Fiserv Forum, a constant reminder of his great play on the court and his contributions to the Bucks’ success.”
Business Empire and Lasting Legacy
During his playing career in the NBA, Bridgeman acquired a sharp business acumen. He began investing in Wendy’s restaurants and eventually established a 450-restaurant empire under Bridgeman Foods Inc. He also ventured into Coca-Cola bottling businesses and later purchased Ebony and Jet magazines.
Forbes estimated his net worth at $3.7 billion, which made him one of the most successful athlete-turned-businessmen in history.
The University of Louisville Athletics also paid tribute to his legacy.
“Today, we lost a legend and cherished member of the Louisville basketball family,” the school said. “Junior Bridgeman departs with an unprecedented legacy, and we are eternally thankful for what he’s done for our program, our university, and our city.”
Bridgeman is survived by his wife, Doris, and their three children, Eden, Justin, and Ryan. His work in basketball and business will be celebrated for generations.